Definition ∞ Universal Basic Income (UBI) is a government program providing all citizens with a regular, unconditional cash payment, regardless of their other income or employment status. This economic policy aims to reduce poverty, increase economic security, and simplify welfare systems by ensuring a minimum income floor for everyone. In the digital asset space, discussions sometimes involve blockchain-based UBI initiatives that leverage distributed ledger technology for transparent and efficient distribution of funds. It represents a social safety net designed to address economic inequality and the future of work.
Context ∞ Universal Basic Income is a topic of ongoing global economic and social debate, occasionally intersecting with cryptocurrency news regarding experimental decentralized implementations. Advocates discuss its potential to foster financial inclusion and address wealth disparities, while critics raise concerns about funding and economic disincentives. Blockchain technology offers new avenues for exploring transparent and verifiable UBI distribution models.